The Jewish Community Relations Council of New York publicly criticized New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani after he condemned Israel for intercepting a flotilla attempting to breach the naval blockade of Gaza. The group’s leader, Mark Treyger, said the mayor spoke out about the flotilla but failed to address an alleged antisemitic incident at the Park Slope Food Coop in Brooklyn that targeted Jewish residents.

Treyger argued that city leadership requires consistently supporting all communities, especially when they face hate at home. He called on the mayor’s administration to respond to the incident and ensure Jewish New Yorkers feel protected and acknowledged.

Mamdani had described Israel’s interception of the vessel, which resulted in the detention of more than 175 people including several New Yorkers, as unlawful and a violation of international law. Israeli authorities said the flotilla was not carrying humanitarian aid as claimed.

The mayor has faced ongoing criticism over his stance on Israel, including past remarks during his campaign and early actions in office that reversed policies related to antisemitism and ties with Israel. Additional controversies have further fueled debate over his relationship with the Jewish community.